MSc Genealogical, Palaeographic & Heraldic Studies at University of Strathclyde

Programme overview

A distance-learning postgraduate programme from the Strathclyde Institute for Genealogical Studies on the theory and practice of genealogical research, records, archives, palaeography and heraldry. It prepares students to work as professional genealogists and is delivered online.

Faculty: Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences | Department: Strathclyde Institute for Genealogical Studies (Centre for Lifelong Learning) | Duration: Part-time distance learning; full-time MSc runs over 18 months; part-time MSc is three years | Intake: October 2026, January, September and October 2027, March and April 2028 (varies by level) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 (PgCert, 60 credits) covers Scottish, English/Welsh and Irish records, genealogical professional practice, search strategies, church, civil, census, military and land records, genetic genealogy, migration, palaeography, Latin for genealogists and heraldry. Year 2 (PgDip, further 60 credits) adds American, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, British Empire, Jewish and European sources. The MSc adds a 60-credit dissertation (12,000 to 16,000 words).

Career pathways

Intelligence officer, professional genealogist and researcher roles, and use in archives, law, heritage, library and museum work.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Part-time MSc: completion of the PgDip/Part-time MSc Year 2 is required; direct entry to year three is not available. Full-time MSc: an undergraduate degree (which may be augmented by previous postgraduate qualifications) and some experience in genealogical or other relevant research; applicants may be asked for examples of reports or charts. Application deadline: one month before the course start date.

GBP 11,810 for the whole programme (2026/27). Full-time MSc, 18 months (Year 1: 8,843; dissertation: 2,967) Source

Intake: October 2026, January, September and October 2027, March and April 2028 (varies by level)

Duration: Part-time distance learning; full-time MSc runs over 18 months; part-time MSc is three years

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